How competitive is it to get into grad school?

[Elizabeth Hanes, BSN, RN]

Getting into my ABSN program was very competitive, as I understand most such programs are. At my school, they accepted just 8 of 45 applicants (and I was extremely fortunate to be one of the eight).

Is it this competitive to get into an MSN/NP program? I'm not talking Ivy League, or anything like that. Just an average, state university-type grad program.

One of the things I'm really asking is this: while I'm getting my BSN, do I need to kill myself for a 4.0 gpa? I mean, I plan to get the best grades I can, but should I cry in my beer if I get a B in some course? So far, I am really enjoying being a nursing student. I think it will take some of the joy out of the experience if I put extra stress on myself to get perfect grades.

Oh, and for the record, I plan to return for my master's degree a year or two after I finish my BSN.

Your advice appreciated!

[lc3]

I think MSN programs are less competitive to get into if you already have a BSN.

Direct-entry master programs are pretty competitive, but I actually think they are less competitive than community college 2 yr degree programs (where I think the emphasis is on grades)

I think if you maintain atleast a 3.5 in your BSN program then your good to go.

LC

[mvanz9999, RN]

The state program is much harder to get into than the private university program. At least in Illinois.

State school is quite competitive. 300+ applications for 40 seats.

I'm not quite sure why you're asking. If you got into an ABSN program, I'm sure you can find a Master's program. I think most, if not all, are less competitive than the ABSN.